Recovery TPLink WR941ND

[bjr]

I am having trouble with my TP-Link TP941 router running Gargoyle firmware. I have forgotten the password, and despite multiple attempts, I have not been able to reset the router to factory settings using the reset button.

Here’s what I’ve tried so far:

Pressed and held the reset button for various durations (10, 30, and 60 seconds) while the router was powered on.
Attempted the 30-30-30 hard reset procedure without success.
Tried accessing recovery modes like Failsafe, but the router does not respond as expected.

The router is still functional via browser but inaccessible due to the password, I also have access to Wifi and Network

I am seeking guidance on:

Alternative methods to reset the router.
Steps to recover access without resetting (if possible).
Any other suggestions that could help resolve this issue.

Thank you for your time and assistance!

[Lantis]

Does a video like this help you?
https://youtu.be/_NqHpRHl8gQ

The hardware failsafe is the best and easiest way to trigger it. I expect you’re just not quite getting the timing right.
If you cannot trigger failsafe, you don’t have any other options.

Also depending on which version of Gargoyle you’re running, you will be using SSH (modern) or Telnet (old).

[bjr]

Thanks for your help.

I tried to do as you suggested but it didn't work, maybe because it's a different model or I did something wrong.

Here's a video I made of the attempt.

youtube watch?v=z7Q2fsSvmaQ

[Lantis]

I think your first attempt at 3 minutes you pressed and held which did not work.
The last attempt I am reasonably sure you actually triggered failsafe based on the LED flashing.
You should definitely use Telnet.

What port on the router are you trying? When it’s in failsafe try flicking over to the WAN port as it may be listening there instead.

Is it a version 6 941? If so it might be possible to trigger tftp boot.

[bjr]

Thank you very much for your help.

I tried everything, but I was unsuccessful.

I noticed that it changes the "state", because it stops displaying WIFI, DHCP doesn't work and the sys led blinks quickly, but I can't communicate.

I tried on the 4 LANs and on the WAN, both without success.

Is there a trick to reset this model?

TL-WR941ND ver:3.7

[Lantis]

If you can’t successfully get access with Failsafe then I think the only remaining option is a serial console connection.
This will require opening the router and possibly soldering 3 wires to the board.